10 Tips On How to Travel Sustainably

Travel is booming all over the world, so there is no better time than now to take a break from the hustle and bustle of “real life” and visit a tropical island paradise, mountain peak, safari, or ancient civilization site. 

Every corner of the globe is so accessible that we’re spoilt for choice on where to travel: and the question of how we should travel is often not addressed. 

Traveling and experiencing a different culture firsthand is an important way to learn more about both ourselves and the world we inhabit, but a great number of tourists and travelers tend to disregard the impact that their travels have on local environments.

By embracing a few simple principles in this Pacific Prime article, it’s easy to experience everything that a country has to offer without having a negative impact on the communities or environment of the areas you visit, maintaining the culture and natural beauty for generations to come.

Dress For the Occasion

Technology and aviation have brought us closer together than ever before, but while Western style dress may be more common in larger, metropolitan cities, there are many cultures that have differing opinions on what is considered respectful attire.

It is wise to dress conservatively in any country that has strongly held religious beliefs, both for cultural sensitivity and to stay safe. As a general rule, it’s good policy to take note of how locals of similar age and sex are dressing to understand expected norms. 

Men should avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless tops, while women should avoid tops with plunging necklines, miniskirts, and other revealing attire when entering places of worship. Traveling with a lightweight shawl is an excellent idea for female travelers, as it can be used as a scarf and skirt.

Consider Your Use of Plastics

There are many places on Earth where drinking the local tap water is likely to have some pretty, ahem, explosive consequences. Bottled water has been the go-to solution for most travelers, as it’s generally readily available wherever you go. 

However, research has indicated that nine out of every 10  plastic water bottles end up in landfills, and each one of those can take up to 1,000 years to decompose. This means that there’s an estimated 30 million bottles per day going into landfills, or worse, the ocean. 

By using one of the following methods, you can dramatically decrease your environmental impact while traveling:

• A variety of water purifiers are commercially accessible, employing UV light, pumps, or alternative techniques to effectively eliminate contaminants from water sources.
• Iodine or chlorine tablets — Chemical treatment can make non potable water drinkable but these tablets do leave a distinctive chemical flavor that is not to everyone’s taste
• Refill — Refilling a bottle from a safe water source costs just cents and goes a long way toward minimizing your environmental footprint. Carry a sturdy bottle with you, and look out for water coolers at hotels, banks, travel agencies, car rental agencies, and other shops. You’ll save a fortune whilst saving the planet.

Use Public Transport When Possible

It can be dusty, sweaty, and sometimes downright uncomfortable, but by using public transport, you are putting fewer private vehicles on the streets and freeways, which means fewer carbon emissions. It also makes for a great opportunity to interact with locals and add to your travel experience.

Don’t Give to Children Begging on the Street

Children who work and live on the street are vulnerable to physical, emotional, and sexual abuse and, in many cases, are exploited by adults who force them to beg on the streets. 

While reaching into your pocket and offering some coins is a well intentioned act, it only serves to perpetuate the problem by keeping these kids on the streets. 

These children are unable to attend school as they are seen as being more profitable by begging or working, so they remain uneducated and have few prospects to rise above poverty.

Instead of supporting this system, consider supporting communities through development projects or sponsorship of children that live in poverty—a far better way of providing assistance to local communities.

Watch What You Eat

One of the greatest parts of travel is exposure to unique flavors and culinary creations that you would never have the opportunity to try back home. But there are some basic principles that should be abided by. 

Refuse to eat any foods or to purchase any souvenirs made from endangered wildlife such as snakes, bears, turtles, or seahorses. Although these animals are local delicacies, certain species of bears and frogs are endangered, and we should not, as responsible travelers, contribute to their demise.

Reduce Food Waste and Support Local Businesses

While traveling, consider choosing food that is sourced and produced locally. This not only provides support to local farmers and businesses but also helps reduce the environmental impact of long-distance food transportation. Additionally, being mindful of portions can help minimize food waste.

Many tourist-oriented establishments offer all-you-can-eat options, leading to a significant amount of food being discarded. This wasted food negates the environmental efforts put into its production. Globally, less than half of hotels utilize composting for excess food. 

When this leftover food decomposes in landfills, it emits methane, a greenhouse gas that is 21 times more potent than carbon dioxide, further exacerbating environmental concerns.

Spend Your Money on Local, Meaningful Souvenirs Instead of Mass-Made Ones

Opt for souvenirs that hold meaning over those that are mass-produced. Avoid the temptation of generic trinkets and instead seek out one-of-a-kind, locally crafted items that capture the essence of the region’s culture and heritage. 

By investing in these products, you’re directly bolstering the local economy and supporting artisans. In contrast, cheaper, mass-produced souvenirs often end up discarded, adding to the growing issue of plastic waste.

Use Responsible Tourism Agencies

As a consumer of tourism services, your actions can directly influence the industry. By choosing to only support agencies and organizations that focus on the responsible provision of tourism services, you’re making a statement that can affect positive change. 

Companies such as Intrepid and Responsible Travel are just two of hundreds of operators that can help you choose sustainable tour options.

Avoid Flying to Nearby Locations

Air transport causes a large proportion of global emissions. Even at short distances, their carbon footprint can compound, resulting in a long term impact on the environment. 

Doing your part by carpooling can significantly reduce carbon footprints and help lower emissions. This will also spell positive outcomes for the country you’re visiting, making it worthwhile to revisit in the future. 

Spread the Good Word

Once you have a greater sense of awareness of how to travel responsibly, it’s important to inform others who may not have considered the impacts of their actions on local culture and the environment. 

Whenever you see situations that result in wasted energy, water or simply waste and pollution that could be easily avoided, try to let others know of the consequences of their actions. It’s also worthwhile to consider taking out health insurance plans prior to traveling. 

With over two decades of industry expertise and a worldwide reach, Pacific Prime’s brokers assist both expatriates and residents in obtaining comprehensive health insurance policies that align with their requirements and financial constraints. 

If you are uncertain about the appropriate plan for your requirements, contact our brokers today.